The NASCAR community is in mourning following the death of former Cup, Xfinity and Truck Series driver Michael Annett.

The Des Moines, Iowa native's tragic death was confirmed on Friday evening, and since then, tributes have been pouring in for the driver who retired from racing at the end of the 2021 season.

Annett raced in all three of the national NASCAR series during his career, racking up a total of 436 races, 106 of which were in Cup Series events.

Emotional tributes paid to late NASCAR driver

One of Annett's former teams, JR Motorsports, were one of the first to issue a statement regarding the 39-year-old's death.

Taking to social media, the team wrote: "Our thoughts and prayers are with the entire Annett family with the passing of our friend Michael Annett.

"Michael was a key member of JRM from 2017 until he retired in 2021 and was an important part in turning us into the four-car organization we remain today."

Elsewhere, Cup Series star Ricky Stenhouse Jr, who used to race alongside Annett when they were coming up through the ranks, said: "Sad to get the news of Big Mikes passing.

"Raced each other for a long time coming up through ARCA together. Spent a lot of days in the gym together before he retired."

Another Cup Series star, Brad Keselowski, quote-tweeted highlights of Annett winning an ARCA race early in his career, writing: "I remember this day vividly.

"Michael was an up and comer at the same time I was and he was looking really good.

"In the end, Life took us different paths and all of us who knew him and the talent he had are sad to see him go, but glad he is no longer suffering. RIP Michael."

Elsewhere, NASCAR themselves also issued a statement to the media: "NASCAR is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of former NASCAR driver Michael Annett.

"Michael was a respected competitor whose determination, professionalism, and positive spirit were felt by everyone in the garage. Throughout his career, he represented our sport with integrity and the passion of a true racer.

"NASCAR extends its condolences to Michael's family and many friends."

Last but certainly not least, Pilot Flying J, a long-time sponsor of Annett, added: "Our thoughts and prayers are with the Annett family, the JRM Motorsports team and the entire NASCAR community.

"It was our privilege to sponsor Michael for 14 seasons and fuel his love for racing.

"Pilot will be making a donation to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in his memory and extends our deepest condolences to Michael’s family, friends and fans.